Decorative Painting & Faux Finishes (ISBN 1580111793)

Book Description:
Decorative Painting & Faux Finishes shows how to turn an ordinary room into a modern work of art. Paint is the hottest design trend today. Exciting color photographs display the ways to use the magic of paint to create drama, texture, detail, and illusion around the house whether doing-it-yourself or working with a contractor. Easy step-by-step instructions walk homeowners through the process, from mixing paints and glazes to applying the techniques for sponging, ragging, stippling, color washing, spattering, combing, stenciling, marbling, and wood graining.

Over 300 color photos offer plenty of tips on how to work with different types of paint:
Sharon Ross & Else Kinkead's Decorative Painting & Faux Finishes could have been featured in our 'homeowner's helpers' section but deserves mention here for its special attraction to crafters who enjoy working with paint. Over 300 color photos offer plenty of tips on how to work with different types of paint, color schemes, and how to prepare surfaces. Different methods, from ragging to antique and basic stippling and creating a parchment effect using newsprint, are covered in plenty of detail.

pleased:
This is my second favorite choice for beginners on faux finishing. I read it cover to cover. Very detailed explanations, although the finishes are mediocre.